But at $17,990 drive-away, it is very affordable. As a slightly more athletic version of the regular Kia Picanto, the GT could somewhat legitimately lay claim to the title of "Australia's most affordable performance car".

It also bulks up the range, being a new addition to the Picanto family and sitting at the very top of the lineup above the Picanto S, Picanto GT-Line and the limited-run Picanto Australian Open Edition.

However, it's not for everyone. The Kia Picanto GT comes with a five-speed manual only for now, and like the rest of the Picanto range you're locked into a five-door bodystyle too. If you prefer an automatic, you're fresh out of luck.